8" tube rings how to modify?

[EzyStyles (Eric)]

Hi Guys,

Because im using 2 sets of tube rings one for autoguiding scope, the other for dovetail (see link for pic), i went out and got myself another set for skywatchers 8" scope since the rings have both holes top & bottom for guidescope as well as doveplate. This should reduce abit of weight to my setup. Butt..

they are too BIG for my 8" GSO and was wondering how would i modify it to fit? I was thinking of gluing stripes of cloth inside the rings until it is tight enough for the scope. Any suggestions or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

PIC:
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/a...4&d=1152428380

[ballaratdragons (Ken)]

That's a great looking set up Eric!!!

I just made a set of rings for my GS 12" and I went to Clark Rubber and got the right thickness of rubber strips and lined mine. Geoff and Vingo suggested I use felt but I don't need to rotate mine.

If you go to Clark Rubber ask to see the range of the rolls of Sticky-Backed rubber strip. Different thicknesses, different widths. Just peel the backing paper off and stick it on

[EzyStyles (Eric)]

Great suggestion Ken!! Love it. Never thought of clark rubber! and me and my idea of cloth and glue lol. Cheers mate

[Astroman (Andrew Wall)]

I am in a similar situation, my rings are 280mm Inside Dia, my tube is 254mm Outside Dia. I packed them with foam and some small strips of velcro type stuff, the fluffy bit. Only problem is my tube rotated too smoothly and slides down the rings, so will end up modifying this more than likely with rollers or a piece of teflon to stop the tubr slipping, but allow it to rotate Either that or I invest in an 8" f4 or 5 tube.

Good luck with it Eric.

[astro_nutt]

Hi everyone!
If you want to try a "harder" material to add thickness to the inside of the tube rings..how about using wood veneer, aluminium or plastic sheeting..glue each layer one at a time..leave enough for the soft contact for the tube!
Cheers!